Carlo Ancelotti, the head coach of the Brazilian national team, has offered a positive assessment of Real Madrid’s star duo, Vinicius Jr. and Rodrygo Goes.
The former Real Madrid coach affirmed that both players are focused and ready to contribute significantly to the Selecao.
Ancelotti’s comments came ahead of Brazil’s friendly match against Senegal at the Emirates Stadium.
Ancelotti on Vinicius and Rodrygo
Ancelotti was asked directly about the possibility of the two forwards playing together for the national side, to which the coach expressed full confidence in their abilities.
“Vinicius and Rodrygo can obviously do it, because they’re used to it, because they’ve done it at Real Madrid,” he said (h/t Mundo Deportivo).
“I see them doing well, I see them focused, in good physical condition, and I’m convinced they can contribute a lot to the national team.”
The spotlight focused on Vinicius after Ancelotti was spotted talking to the forward alone during a training session.
This private discussion comes amid intense media speculation about Vinicius’ uncertain long-term future at Real Madrid, which has been fueled further by reports of a tense relationship with coach Xabi Alonso.
Vinicius, Rodrygo of Real Madrid
Ancelotti backs Vinicius and Rodrygo to play together and succeed. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)
“I have to talk to everyone to understand the player’s thoughts, tactically as well. You have to ask them, talk to them, know what they think; it’s very important,” he said.
“I’m not going to force a player to play in a position he doesn’t want to. I want them to play where they’re comfortable,” he added.
Ancelotti then clarified that his talks with Vinicius was not regarding his future, especially amid interest from Saudi Arabia.
“With Vinicius, it wasn’t about that; it was another issue, more personal than tactical,” he clarified.
Finally, the Brazilian national team coach offered his outlook for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup.
“We have to keep learning and improving to be ready for the World Cup. I’m happy with what we’ve done so far, but we’re also aware of the mistakes we’ve made.
“Because now you can make mistakes, but at the World Cup, if you make a mistake, you’re going home,” he concluded.